Mountain sense is the most important thing you pack.
A good trip starts with good judgement. Here are the nine rules of the Norwegian Mountain Code, what they mean in practice — and how FERDEN helps you follow them, honestly.
Based on the Norwegian Mountain Code (Fjellvettreglene), developed by the Norwegian Trekking Association (DNT) and the Red Cross.
Plan your trip and tell someone where you're going
A safe trip starts at home. Check the route, conditions and alternatives — and make sure someone knows where you're headed and when you'll be back.
In FERDENPlan the trip with a route and expected return, and share a tracking link with an emergency contact — they need neither app nor account.
Adapt your trip to your ability and the conditions
Choose the trip for the least experienced in the group, not the most. The same summit can be a Sunday stroll in July and an expedition in February — conditions decide.
In FERDENSee the route on the map before you go, and adjust the plan together with your group.
Pay attention to weather and avalanche warnings
Check the forecast and the avalanche warning when planning, right before you leave — and reassess along the way. Mountain weather changes fast.
In FERDENWeather and hazard alerts from MET and official avalanche warnings from Varsom, right in the app.
Be prepared for storms and cold, even on short trips
Pack to survive an unplanned night out: extra clothing, a windproof layer, hat and mittens — even when the sun is shining in the car park.
Bring the equipment needed to help yourself and others
First aid, a headlamp, a bivy bag and enough food and drink always come along. In avalanche terrain in winter: shovel, probe and transceiver.
In FERDENPacking lists with checkoff, shared with your group — and the AI scanner that keeps your gear in order.
Choose safe routes — recognise avalanche terrain and unsafe ice
Slopes steeper than 30 degrees can slide, and avalanches can release above you. Keep your distance from steep slopes and cornices, and never walk onto ice you don't know.
Use a map and compass — always know where you are
GPS is a great aid, but batteries die and screens freeze. A paper map and compass always belong in the pack — and practise using them.
In FERDENKartverket topographic maps, offline too — and an off-route alert if you drift from the plan. But the app never replaces map and compass.
Turn back in time — there's no shame in turning around
The hardest and most important rule. Decide a turnaround point in advance: if you're not there by the agreed time, you turn. The summit will still be there next time.
Save your strength and seek shelter if needed
Don't fight the storm. Dig in, use the bivy bag and wait for improvement — those who save their strength are found in better shape.
Five minutes at home saves hours out there.
- Check the forecast — and the avalanche warning at varsom.no in winter mountains
- Tell someone where you're going and when you'll be back
- Charge your phone fully, and consider a power bank
- Pack for the trip and the season — and check the list twice
- Download the map offline before you lose signal
The emergency numbers to know in Norway.
Call too early rather than too late. Stay warm, make yourself visible to search crews, and save your phone battery until you get through.
FERDEN is a tool. The tracking link and alerts never replace emergency numbers, map, compass, proper equipment — or your own judgement.
Plan your next trip with the mountain code behind you.
FERDEN is free in the browser — and safety is always included.
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